Powerboats in Abu Dhabi

It may be Formula 1 that’s currently stealing the headlines in Abu Dhabi, but before Hamilton, Rosberg, Vettel et al arrive, there are another bunch of petrol-heads set to make a splash.

The racers of the XCAT World Series will be smashing through the waves off the coast of the capital on November 17 and 18. This will be the final round of the championship, with the title set to be decided on a one-kilometre course between the Breakwater and Corniche.

And while the event may be overshadowed by the F1, these powerboats are more than a match for their road-going cousins. XCATs are powered by twin 600bhp engines that propel them to speeds of up to 220kph.

The UAE’s Team Victory currently leads the way in the series, and you can also cheer on the capital’s very own Team Abu Dhabi on home water. It’s sure to be an exciting weekend.Free. Nov 17-18. Abu Dhabi Corniche, www.xcatracing.com (02 681 5566).

Three more to see Adrenaline-fuelled sports in the capital

Formula 1You might have already heard about this... If by some chance you haven’t, the final round of the Formula 1 season is rolling into Abu Dhabi at the end of the month.Limited tickets available, from Dhs995. Nov 25-27. Yas Marina Circuit, Yas Island (800 927).

UIM F1 H20 World ChampionshipIf the XCAT World Series whets your appetite for powerboat racing, then check out this series. It is the pinnacle of the sport, with the boats hitting 140kph in just six seconds, and top speeds of 230kph.Free. Dec 8-9. Abu Dhabi Corniche (02 681 5566).

Red Bull Air RaceYou’ve seen racing on the water and the circuit, now see it in the air. Pilots will be hitting speeds of up to 370kph and enduring forces up to 10G over the waters of the Corniche. This is spectacular stuff.Free. Feb 10-11, 2017. Abu Dhabi Corniche (800 555).